Government Overhaul: Efficiency, Cuts, and Controversy
February 26, 2025
Proposed "Gold Card" Immigration Program
President Trump announced a new "gold card" immigration program, where individuals or companies can purchase a card for $5 million. This card would provide a path to citizenship and prioritize highly skilled individuals or those who would contribute to the economy.
The revenue generated from the gold cards would be used to pay down the national debt. The administration believes this program could potentially generate trillions of dollars.
The program aims to attract talented individuals who might otherwise leave the US and start companies in other countries.
DOGE Initiative and Government Cuts
President Trump signed an executive order to implement the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cost-cutting initiative. The order aims to increase transparency and accountability in government spending.
DOGE, led by Elon Musk, will review federal contracts and grants, seeking to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse. Musk stated that the goal is to find $1 trillion in savings, about 15% of the federal budget. A website, DOGE.gov, will detail the specific cuts made. DOGE will initially focus on payments to educational institutions and foreign entities.
The executive order mandates a 30-day freeze on government credit cards, a review of federal real property leases for potential termination, and the development of a plan for disposing of unneeded government property. New contracting officer warrants are also paused during this review.
The initiative also includes streamlining processes related to federal contracts, grants, and non-essential travel, requiring written justifications for payments and travel expenses. These justifications will be posted publicly where possible.
Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and the EU
The administration will impose 25% tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, effective April 2nd. These tariffs are primarily aimed at addressing fentanyl trafficking across the border. A 30-day pause is in place to allow these countries to demonstrate progress in combating fentanyl.
President Trump also announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on cars and other goods from the European Union, citing unfair trade practices and a $300 billion trade deficit.
Deportation Policy and Border Crossings
The administration defended its aggressive deportation policies, focusing on removing illegal immigrant criminals.
The White House highlighted a significant decrease in illegal border crossings, attributing it to the administration's policies.
Investigation of Federal Workforce
Elon Musk sent an email to federal employees asking what they accomplished in the past week. Approximately half of the federal workforce responded. A follow-up email will be sent, and employees who don't respond may be fired. The goal is to identify and remove employees who are not essential or not performing well.
Russia-Ukraine Peace Negotiations
President Trump announced that Ukrainian President Zelenskyy will visit the White House on Friday to sign an agreement related to rare earth minerals and other matters. The U.S. will be making a significant investment.
President Trump expressed confidence in achieving a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, stating his desire to end the killing and avoid further US financial contributions to the conflict.
Plan to Lower Egg Prices
The administration announced a comprehensive plan to lower egg prices, including a $1 billion investment by the Department of Agriculture to combat avian influenza and curb the crisis.
Measles Outbreak in Texas
The Department of Health and Human Services reported a measles outbreak in Texas, with 124 cases and two deaths, primarily within the Mennonite community. The outbreak is being monitored.